12 delicious recipes that use watermelon

You don't need one day to celebrate the sweetness of watermelon--but it helps. Monday, Aug. 3 is National Watermelon Day, so if you're at a loss for different ways to use it (besides a seed-spitting contest) check out these mouth-watering recipes to keep you cool and refreshed.

1.
Watermelon and Peppadew Salad

Elizabeth Binder

Peppadew is the brand name of sweet piquanté peppers grown in the Limpopo province of South Africa. These mildly spicy, pickled, cherry-sized peppers are available in store deli sections near the olives. They're fabulous to have on hand for any party (they're great with cheese, stuffed or even thrown on the grill) and pair well with watermelon's sweet juiciness.

3.
Watermelon Sparkler Punch

NOLET

Nothing says summer like watermelon…and for anyone who likes to entertain, a good punch recipe is a must. NOLET’S Silver from the Nolet family, and creators of Ketel One Vodka, is not your typical gin. Instead of juniper, it gives off floral and fruit notes – specifically Turkish Rose, Peach and Raspberry – which makes great cocktails for both gin lovers and those who are new to the spirit.

4.
Spicy Watermelon Salad with Feta and Basil

Matthew Mead/AP

Watermelon’s sweet, crunchy flavor lends itself surprisingly well to salads, and this simple recipe for spicy watermelon salad with feta cheese and basil is a great start. But improvise as you see fit.

7.
Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Goat Cheese, and Candied Walnuts

Danielle Walker

This is a simple salad to make, but the flavors and textures are complex and delicious. The watermelon lends a subtle sweetness to the peppery arugula and rich goat cheese, and the spiced candied walnuts give it the perfect crunch.

8.
Watermelon Garden Punch

9.
Watermelon Ice Cubes

AP

Don't make ice cubes with just water. These are awesome in lemonade, ginger ale, plain or flavored seltzer water, even orange soda. They can also add a nice summer touch to gin and tonics and margaritas.